Write what you know

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I think it's fair to say that anyone who has ever had the slightest interest in writing, has been given the advice of only writing what you know. What does that truly mean? I prefer fiction, particularly fantasy and science fiction, and there is no way anyone could have personal knowledge of dragons or space battles or magic rings. So, why is the advice given? Does it mean you can't imagine and still write?

Nonsense.

The point being made is not to guess about things that are easily disproven. For instance, Tom Clancy's first novel, "The Hunt for Red October," is fiction. However, it is based on a real incident, using known technology, and with known rules. Tom Clancy spent a lot of time researching, so he could create a believable fiction story. Apparently it was so accurate that the FBI paid him a visit. So, no, Tom Clancy didn't know about submarines at the start--he was an insurance salesman--but he studied and learned. Then, he wrote about what he knew. The story is then very believable and the audience immediately trusts the author and delves into the book.

Advice is given for a variety of reasons, but I think the most common is out of true concern and best wishes. It's up to you to decide about accepting it or not. Another piece of advice is, "rules are made to be broken." When it comes to creating stories, do whatever works. "Fake it until you make it," is another chunk of advice I especially love. If you have a strong desire, you can find what you need to make your story work, even if you don't know all of it right now. Besides, even if you try and fail, you have at least tried. Perhaps the next time will work out better.

- M